The State of Illinois has created a website to centralize information about COVID-19’s spread in Illinois and what programs / services are available for affected residents and businessowners. Please visit www2.illinois.gov/sites/coronavirus for all information relating to the virus.

STATE OF ILLINOIS COVID-19 HOTLINE NUMBER

If you have any questions regarding COVID-19 in Illinois, please call the hotline number: (800) 889-3931

STAY AT HOME ORDER EXTENDED TO APRIL 30th

On advice of public health officials, Governor Pritzker announced today that the stay at home executive order would be extended through April 30th, 2020

GOING OUTDOORS

It is strongly recommended that if you need to leave your home and go outdoors, you wear a bandana or mask across your nose and mouth for an additional layer of protection.

With the arrival of warmer weather, many of us will seek outdoor exercise. Public health officials in Illinois and across the country encourage you to continue practicing social distancing while exercising, and remember to wash your hands and avoid touching your face. It is also recommended you wear a face mask or face covering if possible.

Lake County Forest Preserves remain open from 6:30 am to sunset during the COVID-19 pandemic, but public buildings, playgrounds and restrooms are closed. Visit www.lcfpd.org for the latest information.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE DURING COVID-19

Unemployment Insurance is being expanded in a multitude of ways to help those who aren’t able to work due to COVID-19. Please visit https://www2.illinois.gov/ides for more information

The federal government recently enacted legislation to address the economic crisis brought on by COVID-19. You can read more about how that bill may impact you here:http://www.senatormelindabush.com/…/390-bush-how-the-cares-…

For people who have been recently laid off due to COVID19, you can qualify for the ACA right now due to experiencing a qualifying life event. Visit: www.getcovered.illinois.gov

CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE

The State of Illinois is committed to ensuring essential workers have safe daycare while they work. Over 600 applications are being considered for licensing small group daycare during the COVID-19 crisis, ensuring socially distant settings.

Each provider will be given an additional stipend - $750 each for licensed homes and $2,000 for centers running one or two classrooms. Then another $3,000 to centers that are having 3 or more classrooms. Grant applications are available Monday, March 30th at coronavirus.illinois.gov